We do a lot of work with Wireless Networking at InfoLogix, and we’re often asked to perform Coverage Assessments and Site Surveys for our hospital clients. In many cases, we find people tend to use these terms interchangeably, while in fact they are two different services with different objectives. So, here’s some clarification:
A Coverage Assessment is a service whereby our Network Engineers test the existing wireless coverage in a facility. This allows us to tell the client what type of coverage that they can expect for a certain application (i.e. data, voice, RTLS). The report data will illustrate client access point density, power levels, cell overlap and identify areas that may need better coverage.
As part of this process, our engineers also perform a Spectrum Analysis Test to measure the RF energy in the air. By identifying areas where the coverage is not sufficient, it provides the hospital with a baseline of what their network performance should be. The report also clarifies “next steps” to take to remediate any areas of the facility whereby the coverage may not be sufficient to support their intended use. This service is very good for hospitals who want to know what they can expect from an older or existing network.
A Site Survey is a more intensive service, used mostly for a new network build or a network redesign. Hospitals that are building a new structure, wing or facility need a site survey to be completed prior to construction completion. The findings provide insight on how many access points are needed for the facility, as well as the placement. Access point density and location is based upon the intended use of the network in that facility. We find that in most hospitals today, the engineers are building the new networks to a “voice or RTLS” grade to support those applications.
The Site Survey also includes a Spectrum Analysis Report, as the RF Energy in each specific area also determines AP quantity and density. This also provides a good reference point for the future should issues arise that may be causing interference. The quantity and placement of the access points not only affect the purchase quantity; it also impacts the number of switch ports in a given unit or floor, as well as impacting the Core Network Infrastructure, cabling location and costs.
To sum it up, a Coverage Assessment measures what your network can support today, whereas a Site Survey provides a detailed report on how the network should be designed to support the intended use of the Wireless Infrastructure.
